The Missing Link: effective stakeholder cooperation for prevention of MSHT among vulnerable youth

Building on the findings of the “Effective Prevention of Exploitation and Trafficking of Vulnerable Youth” project that took place between September 2023 – March 2025, we continue our mission to protect youth at risk by launching a new initiative: The Missing Link:  effective stakeholder cooperation for prevention of MSHT among vulnerable youth.

The project responds to critical needs identified in the previous phase: stronger local cooperation among youth workers and key stakeholders, the replication of training in new communities, and the need of practical tools to reduce youth vulnerability.

Main outputs:

1. Replicated three-day training programme delivered to specialists working with vulnerable youth in Cluj-Napoca child protection and NGOs, focusing on the prevention and identification of human trafficking risks. The activity includes needs assessment, developing and implementing gender-sensitive, practical training, and providing follow-up support through hands-on assignments and targeted interventions. (activity in partnership with DGASPC Cluj-Napoca)
2. Community of Practice (CoP) piloted in Sibiu to strengthen stakeholder collaboration by establishing a structured platform for peer learning. This platform enables youth workers supporting vulnerable and institutionalized youth to share resources and collaboratively address challenges. Additionally, the CoP will support the creation of youth-centered educational materials focused on healthy relationships, financial literacy, and self-protection strategies. (activity in partnership with DGASPC Sibiu).

Key activities will include: the design and establishment of the CoP; delivery of capacity-building sessions for CoP members and relevant stakeholders and the organization of interactive peer-to-peer learning and working sessions focused on intervention strategies and the development of youth-focused materials.

As part of the initiative, two comprehensive toolkits will be developed:

• A practical guide for setting up a CoP focused on MSHT prevention and early identification among vulnerable youth..
• A youth-focused educational toolkit promoting healthy relationships, financial literacy, and self-protection strategies aimed at empowering young people and reducing their vulnerability to exploitation.

To conclude the results and to support the replication of the CoP approach in other communities, dissemination events will be organised.

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 The project The Missing Link: effective stakeholder cooperation for prevention of MSHT among vulnerable youth is carried out by A.L.E.G. with funding from the British Government through the British Embassy in Romania. Implementation period June 2025 – March 2026.